Ruqayyah Snyder
Bahrain is a Middle Eastern nation that few tourists visit, despite its rich history and unique culture. With its blend of ancient sites and modern developments, Bahrain offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past while also providing contemporary amenities and attractions. From its impressive forts and UNESCO-listed sites to its vibrant capital city of Manama and stunning natural landscapes, Bahrain has something for everyone. So, is Bahrain worth visiting? Let's find out!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Size | Bahrain is a tiny island, a fifth of the size of Qatar |
| Tourism | Bahrain is open to tourists but doesn't draw crowds like other countries in the region |
| History | Distinct from its neighbours, Bahrain's history stretches back to the Dilmun civilization, one of the world's oldest |
| Food | Excellent food from all over the Middle East, including fresh and delicious seafood |
| Nature | Bahrain's desert is easily accessible and home to iconic sites like the Tree of Life |
| Modernity | Blends history with modernity, with traditional and contemporary attractions |
| Transport | Transport in Bahrain is highly developed, with modern highways and efficient ride-hailing services |
| Visa | The visa process is straightforward |
| Cost | Bahrain can be quite expensive, especially for dining and everyday expenses |
| Weather | Bahrain experiences extremely hot summers, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C |
| Public transport | Limited public transport options |
| Culture | Predominantly Muslim country with conservative cultural norms |
| Nightlife | More subdued and less varied than neighbouring destinations like Dubai |
The country's unique history
Bahrain has a long and fascinating history that sets it apart from its neighbours. Unlike other countries in the region, Bahrain's history stretches back to the Dilmun civilisation, which inhabited the area around 3000 BC, making it one of the world's oldest civilisations.
The Qal'at al-Bahrain (Bahrain Fort) is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases layers of settlements from different eras. Here, you can explore the ancient capital of Dilmun, including a sea tower, a northern city wall, parts of several palaces and cemeteries, and a Portuguese fort built on top of the mound in the 14th century.
The Bahrain National Museum is another essential stop for history buffs, housing artefacts from the Dilmun era to the Islamic period. It features exhibits such as Dilmun, Tylos, Islam, and Traditional Trades and Crafts, providing a comprehensive overview of Bahrain's rich historical context.
In addition to these sites, Bahrain also boasts several other UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Pearling Trail, which takes visitors through the heart of the country's once-thriving pearling industry, and the Bahrain Pearling Trail on Muharraq Island, where you can learn about the history of pearl diving and exporting, which was a major industry before the discovery of oil.
Bahrain's history is also evident in its architectural highlights, such as the Al Fateh Grand Mosque, with its impressive Kufic calligraphy and vast fibreglass dome, and the Beit Al Quran, which houses a renowned Islamic museum and a collection of centuries-old Qurans and related manuscripts.
With its deep-rooted history, archaeological ruins, and well-preserved cultural sites, Bahrain offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past and a chance to explore a country that seamlessly blends its ancient heritage with modern developments.
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The food and drink
Bahrain's food scene is a culinary adventure, offering a mix of traditional and modern dishes that will tantalise your taste buds. The country's rich history as a trading post for spices, clothing, and pearls is reflected in its diverse cuisine, which has been influenced by various cultures over the centuries.
Traditional Bahraini Food
For those seeking an authentic taste of Bahrain, the country's traditional dishes are a must-try. One of the most popular is machboos, a spiced rice dish with meat. Samosas, falafel wraps, and grilled hammour (a type of grouper fish) are also local favourites, often served with traditional Bahraini spices and sides. The Museum of Bahrain is highly recommended for its delicious falafel wraps.
International Cuisine
Bahrain also offers a wide range of international cuisine to satisfy any craving. Block 338 in Adliya is a foodie's paradise, with restaurants offering Lebanese, Iranian, Turkish, and other global cuisines. The capital, Manama, is known for its vibrant food scene, with incredible restaurants serving gastronomic delights from around the world. Whether you're in the mood for traditional cafes or high-end dining, Manama has something to tempt your palate.
Seafood
Being an island nation, Bahrain naturally boasts an array of fresh and delicious seafood dishes. Grilled hammour is a popular choice, but there are also numerous other seafood options to explore, including healthy doses of sumptuous seafood on the island's many beaches.
Desserts and Treats
For those with a sweet tooth, Bahrain has plenty of treats to offer. Halwa is a local specialty, a sweet, gelatinous dessert often flavoured with rosewater, saffron, and nuts. Arabian coffee, teas, samosas, and shawarmas are also popular choices for a quick pick-me-up or an afternoon indulgence.
Dining Options
Whether you're looking for a cosy café, a rooftop restaurant with city views, or a chic lounge, Bahrain has something to suit every taste and budget. The country also offers all-inclusive resorts and buffet restaurants that feature themed evenings, allowing you to sample a variety of cuisines in one place.
Drinks
While Bahrain is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative cultural norms, alcohol is available in select licensed establishments such as hotel bars and certain restaurants. However, public drunkenness is frowned upon, and alcohol laws are strictly enforced.
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The beaches
Bahrain's beaches are a great option for a day out. With average temperatures reaching as high as 35°C in summer, and between 17°C and 20°C in December and January, you'll have plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun.
Bahrain Bay is a popular choice for locals and tourists looking for entertainment near the centre of Manama. It's calm enough to swim in and offers facilities for water sports. The largest beach is Al Jazayer, while Budaiya, Malkiya and Diraz offer natural beauty and more secluded, unspoilt locations. For parties, Solymar is a beach club offering international cuisine alongside water sports and afternoon parties.
The Al Dar Islands are the most popular islands to visit. They can be reached from Sitra, which is a 15-minute trip from Manama, via an eight-minute boat trip. You'll find locals mixing with tourists on the shores, admiring the crystalline waters while swimming or relaxing on the beach. For ultimate relaxation, you can rent beach huts for the day, or try a boat trip for fishing or dolphin spotting.
Hawar is another group of islands that can be reached within 45 minutes from the Durrat Marina in the south of the country. Much of it is home to protected species such as dugongs, green turtles and seabirds. You can take day trips to the islands, or stay in the only hotel, the Mantis Bahrain Hotel and Resort, which was due to open in 2024.
If you're looking for a hidden gem, Jarada Island is an island between Bahrain and Qatar that submerges under the Arabian Gulf at high tide. It can be reached via a 40-minute boat trip from Muharraq, but be sure to book in advance as excursions are subject to good weather and tide conditions.
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The shopping
Bahrain's shopping scene is a testament to its modernity. From bustling markets to glitzy malls, Bahrain offers a range of shopping experiences that showcase the country's unique blend of old and new.
Traditional Markets
The Manama Souq is a great example of Bahrain's traditional shopping culture. This laid-back market offers a range of local products, including spices, textiles, crafts, and even gold jewellery. It is a more authentic and less touristy shopping experience compared to other souqs in the region. Here, you can interact with locals and practice your haggling skills.
Gold Shopping
Speaking of gold, Manama Souq is also a great place to shop for gold. You can find vendors selling pure 22- and 24-carat gold jewellery, often studded with diamonds and pearls. You can either buy ready-made pieces or have a custom-made gold pendant of your name in Arabic as a unique souvenir.
Modern Malls
If you're looking for a more modern shopping experience, Bahrain has you covered with its large malls. Bahrain City Centre and The Avenues Bahrain are two of the largest malls in the country, offering a wide range of international brands, entertainment options, and gourmet dining.
The newest and biggest mall on the island is the Galleria Mall in Diyyar Al Muharraq. Here, magnificent boutiques and high-end stores coexist with rows of craft stalls, markets, and food stands, showcasing the beautiful juxtaposition of old and new that Bahrain does so well.
So, whether you're looking for traditional handicrafts or modern brands, Bahrain's shopping scene has something for everyone.
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The desert
Bahrain's desert is easily accessible, with Sakhir being the main desert region. It is home to rolling dunes, 4,000-year-old ruins, and a Formula One race track. The desert activities on offer include 4x4 safaris, camel rides, camping trips, and guided tours.
One of the highlights of a trip to the desert is the Tree of Life, a lone tree that has thrived in the heart of the desert for over 400 years without any apparent water source. Another must-see is the Al-Areen Wildlife Park, which offers a diverse range of flora and fauna and a break from the desert heat.
Bahrain's compact size means that the desert areas are quickly accessible even from the capital, Manama. You can either drive yourself or join a guided tour, some of which include quad biking or dune bashing.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Bahrain has a distinct and interesting history that dates back to the Dilmun civilisation around 3000 BC. The Bahrain Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases layers of settlements from different eras. The Bahrain National Museum is another essential stop, housing artefacts from the Dilmun era to the Islamic period. The Pearling Trail, another UNESCO-listed site, takes you through the heart of Bahrain's pearling industry, which was once central to its economy.
Bahrain's desert is easily accessible and home to iconic sites like the Tree of Life, a lone tree that has thrived for over 400 years without any apparent water source. The country also boasts pristine beaches with crystalline waters, such as the Al Dar Islands, and beautiful uninhabited islands.
Bahrain offers incredible food from all over the Middle East. While there, you can enjoy Palestinian food at Palestine Nights, excellent falafel wraps at the Museum of Bahrain, and traditional Bahraini dishes like machboos and samosas at Bab Al Bahrain Souk. For dessert, try halwa, a sweet, gelatinous treat flavoured with rosewater, saffron, and nuts.
